Our dog BUG had his first seizure after the Bordetella and Cornona shots puppies receive during the first year of care. After the visit we took him home. He appeared lethargic and then down he went, eyes rolled back, drooling profusely, loss of bodily functions and seizing. He weighed about 3lbs and the 2 shots seemed to be too overwhelming for his little system. We rushed him back to the Vet, a very long 20 minute drive. We had no clue as to what was going on. They got BUG in a room and gave him a steroid shot and stabilized him. We waited around for about an hour and after he was cleared we took him home. It was a very long night of him just lying in his bed. We had no idea at the time what had actually occurred was a seizure. Once he had recovered we carried on as any dog owner would never thinking this would happen again. But this was not the case and so began our journey into understanding Canine Epilepsy and improving our dogs overall health.

When I reflect on my emotional state at that time, I was highly anxious and stressed. BUG is not one of those dogs who enjoy riding in the car and his Vet seemed a million miles away. He pants, whines and is highly stressed. Now I am a aware that I am passing my anxiety upon my sensitive little dog.

There are other factors we considered; light, temperature and sound. Since we have begun following the 5 MANTRA’s things have improved immensely but it is still a journey. We want to share our Research and Experience and the things we have learned along the way.

Understanding Canine Epilepsy, Dog Seizures and what's going on with your dog can be an overwhelming task. That feeling of helplessness you get when your dog has a seizure doesn't have to affect you forever, there are things you can do.

Dog seizures are caused by misfire in the brain. There could be several different kinds and that is why it is important to fully understand what you are dealing with. Not all seizures indicate a diagnosis of Canine Epilepsy. The word Epilepsy refers to repeated seizures. Remember ALL DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT FOR CANINE EPILEPSY AND DOG SEIZURES BEGINS AT THE VET. Your Vet can help identify what type of seizure your dog is having and whether it is related to Canine Epilepsy or some other factor.

It’s very important to also do your own research. Every dog is different and no one knows your dog like you do. Keeping a journal of what is happening around the time the seizure occurs can help you determine what factors may be contributing to it. What was going on prior to the dog's seizure? How were you feeling at that time? Were you able to recognize the Aura change in your dog? It's important to know you are most affective during the Aura phase of a seizure. Please see our page on The Aura Phase. The journal not only helps in determining a possible cause for a seizure but also a check point for you on how you are feeling and what changes you may need to make in your daily routine. Remember the Basic Philosophy WHATS GOOD FOR YOU IS GOOD FOR YOUR DOG AND WHAT IS GOOD FOR YOUR DOG IS GOOD FOR YOU!

The Phases of Canine Epilepsy

There are 4 basic stages to Canine Epilepsy

1st - The Prodome

2nd - The Aura Phase

3rd - The Actual Seizure

4th - Post Seizure Recovery.

It is during the Prodome and the Aura Phase that you may be able to prevent the onset of a seizure. By recognizing the trigger events of these 2 phases you can better help your dog and you will feel more prepared to handle what may come next. Again it is important to keep track of every detail no matter how small, this is information your Vet may need. Any and all symptoms may help in identifying what you can do going forward.

The Ictus Phase or actual seizure is the most frightening experience. Your dog may suddenly drop to the floor or even lose consciousness. Other symptoms are body seizing, padding of feet, excessive drooling, gnashing of teeth and uncontrollable loss of body functions. There are things you can do during this phase to make your dog more comfortable and to hopefully reduce the duration of the seizure. Click on the link to our page regarding The Actual Seizure for more information.

The Post Seizure Recovery or Post Ictus Phase can last as long as 48 hours. Depending on how long the seizure or seizures lasted your dog may have expended up to as much energy as you running a Marathon or 2. I don’t know about you but I would be incredibly exhausted, thirsty and hungry all at the same time. Click on our link Post Seizure Recovery for a more detailed description of this phase and some helpful tips and tools for a quicker recovery.

Please remember that these are things that have worked for us. It is by no means a replacement for guided Veterinary Treatment. Always check with your dog's Vet before changing or adding anything to your dog's current health care regimen.

and ALWAYS PINK PAWSitive!